Shikhara

Definition

A shikhara is a prominent architectural feature of Hindu temples, characterized by a towering spire that rises above the sanctum sanctorum. This vertical element symbolizes the mythical Mount Meru, believed to be the center of the universe in Hindu cosmology. In the context of Esoteric Buddhist architecture and sacred spaces, shikharas can represent the axis mundi, connecting the earthly realm with higher spiritual planes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shikharas are typically richly decorated with sculptures and carvings that depict deities, celestial beings, and various mythological narratives.
2. The height and style of a shikhara can vary significantly based on regional architectural traditions, reflecting local cultural influences.
3. In Esoteric Buddhist contexts, shikharas may also symbolize spiritual ascent and enlightenment, mirroring the journey towards awakening.
4. The construction of a shikhara is often aligned with specific astrological and spiritual considerations, making it not just an aesthetic feature but also one with deep symbolic meaning.
5. Many famous temples across India, such as the Brihadeeswarar Temple and Khajuraho Temples, showcase stunning examples of shikhara design and architecture.

Review Questions

• How does the design of a shikhara reflect the cosmological beliefs in Hinduism and its influence on Buddhist architecture?
  • The design of a shikhara embodies the idea of Mount Meru, which is central to Hindu cosmology as the axis of the universe. This verticality represents a connection between earthly existence and higher realms. In Esoteric Buddhist architecture, similar principles are applied where shikharas symbolize spiritual ascent. The architectural feature thus serves not only as an aesthetic element but also reinforces the shared cosmological beliefs between Hinduism and Buddhism.
• Compare and contrast the use of shikharas in Hindu temples with stupas in Buddhist architecture regarding their symbolic meanings and functions.
  • Shikharas in Hindu temples symbolize Mount Meru and serve as a vertical connection to the divine, often intricately adorned with iconography that narrates mythological stories. In contrast, stupas in Buddhist architecture represent the enlightened mind and serve primarily as reliquaries housing sacred relics. While both structures have significant spiritual meanings, shikharas focus more on divine ascent while stupas emphasize enlightenment through meditation.
• Evaluate the role of regional variations in shikhara designs and how they contribute to the understanding of local cultural identities within Esoteric Buddhist practices.
  • Regional variations in shikhara designs significantly contribute to local cultural identities by showcasing different artistic styles, materials, and symbolic interpretations. For example, northern Indian shikharas tend to be more ornate compared to their southern counterparts, which often exhibit simpler lines. These differences not only reflect aesthetic preferences but also demonstrate how local beliefs and practices influence spiritual architecture. By studying these variations within Esoteric Buddhist contexts, one can gain deeper insights into how regional cultures interpret universal themes such as spirituality and connection to the cosmos.

Related terms

stupa: A stupa is a dome-shaped structure containing relics and used as a place of meditation and worship in Buddhism.

mandala: A mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism representing the universe, often depicted in a circular form.

vimana: A vimana is a term used in Hindu architecture to describe the structure above the sanctum of a temple, similar to a shikhara but with distinct styles across regions.